Overview of the Merchant Mariner Credential Application Process
What Happens After Passing Your Captain's License Exam?
Who issues the U.S. captain's license?
The U.S. captain's license is issued by the National Maritime Center (NMC), a division of the U.S. Coast Guard.
The NMC evaluates and issues credentials in compliance with the statutes and regulations that govern the Merchant Mariner Credentialing (MMC) program.
💡 TIP! Although everyone calls the final document a "captain's license," the NMC refers to it as a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC).
How does the captain's license application process go?
Once you have passed our final proctored exam and received your MLS Certificate of Completion, you must submit an application package to the NMC.
The MMC application package must be submitted to the National Maritime Center via e-mail (MMCApplications@uscg.mil). MMC and Medical Certificates are processed separately, so CG-719K must be emailed to MEDAIP@uscg.mil.
⚠ WARNING: Sending information via e-mail to the incorrect e-mail address or sending the same information to several e-mail addresses not only causes delays in processing for other mariners but will significantly delay processing your information.
If your application still needs to be completed, you may receive an Awaiting Information (AI) email and/or letter from the NMC requesting more information.
Fees are usually required for MMC transactions, and our application fees article has information on submitting payments, general questions, and refunds.
Most applications are generally evaluated for Safety & Suitability, Medical Certificate, and Professional Qualification (Sea Service) items.
After your application has been evaluated and approved, you will receive an email and/or letter notification indicating that your license is on its way!
Where do I find the application forms?
You can find all the license application forms and the license checklist through our Help Center's articles here.
How can I tell if I have the old or new forms?
The expiration date is located at the top right corner of the forms. This date indicates how long the forms are valid.
📖 Read about the Captain's Application Process: Status of CG-719 Series Forms.
I passed my exam; what is my next step?
🥳 Congratulations! Once you pass our proctored exam, you will receive our certificate recognized by the United States Coast Guard.
Submit the original certificate, application package, and applicable fees to the National Maritime Center within one year. They will send you your original license upon their approval of your package.
Do I need to submit Character Reference Letters?
Character Reference Letters are NO longer required. This was an old requirement that the Coast Guard had gotten rid of.
I don't want to do the application forms myself; can I pay someone to do them on my behalf?
😣 Navigating the application forms for your captain's license can be challenging, but we're here to help. While we can help answer basic questions, like where to go or what to fill out, we cannot complete your application.
You can hire a third party to help you with your application process. Services like these will:
You can hire a third party to help you with your application process. Services like these will:
- Review your entire license/document application package for completeness
- Submit your application package to the USCG for approval by that agency
- Give you peace of mind before you write out that check for evaluation fees to the USCG
Most applicants submit independently, but these types of services are available (generally for those with unique situations).
💡 TIP! As a student with us, you receive access to MM-SEAS PRO's service for 2 years at no additional cost with your captain's license purchase.
MM-SEAS PRO offers expert guidance, live advice, and career mentorship to support you throughout the licensing process. Their comprehensive USCG licensing software includes interactive checklists to guide you through every step, whether you're applying for your first MMC, an upgrade, or a renewal.
With MM-SEAS PRO, you also get expert answers and personalized advice through unlimited one-on-one video calls with USCG licensing specialists. This ensures you have the support you need to achieve the license you've always dreamed of.
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